Screenhead

Since the October 12 debut of the latest Disney/Pixar animated film, “Ratatouille”, which features the adventures of a gourmet chef rat named Renny demonstrating his culinary skills in Paris’ top kitchens, the demand for pet rats has surged.  Who would have thought that the film would have such a bizarre effect?

According to the domestic UK pet chain “Pets at Home”, rat sales have increased 50% since the film opened in Britain. Company spokesman Steve Fairburn said, “It’s early doors yet, but it seems ‘Ratatouille’ has done wonders for the image of rats. Contrary to popular opinion, rats are actually one of the cleanest and least smelly pets you can own. They are incredibly responsive to learning and can be taught to do amazing tricks, much in the way that dogs and cats can.”

Apparently, the surge in rat sales hasn’t been a phenomenon exclusive to Britain.  The U.S. also reported an increased demand for pet rats during the summer, and groups in Germany and Sweden are also reporting a surge in rat sales due to the film.

I can forsee one problem with this new trend, however.  Just like people snap up cute puppies and kittens for the holidays, and then discard them like unwanted trash post-holiday, England, the United States, and the other countries who’ve experienced increased sales of rats due to the film might soon find a few more rats running the streets once the novelty has worn off.  Pet groups are now warning that a rat is for life, not just for the holidays.  So before you rush off to buy your own pet rat, think it over.